Your First Job in Australia: A Premier Thoroughbred Stud Placement

Start your working holiday with a guaranteed job at one of Australia's most respected pre-training thoroughbred farms, nestled in peaceful countryside just outside Sydney. This position is the perfect launchpad for adventurers with horse experience, looking to immerse themselves in the equine industry, earn money, and enjoy a supportive work environment.

About the Stud

You'll be placed on a prestigious, 120-acre horse property known for its work in:

  • Thoroughbred spelling

  • Pre-training and fitness conditioning

  • Rehabilitation of injured racehorses

  • Breaking in young stock

This farm has earned a reputation for professionalism, care, and excellent training. The team is experienced, friendly, and passionate about horses. You'll learn fast, work hard — and be supported every step of the way.

Location

Located approximately one hour from Sydney, this farm offers the best of both worlds: wide open spaces and easy access to city life on your days off. You'll live with other international participants in a shared house either onsite of a short distance from the property, with a shared car available for commuting and exploring the area.

What You'll Be Doing

This is a hands-on role for people with previous horse experience, but not super advanced experienced. Depending on your skills and the needs of the stud, you may be involved in:

  • Feeding and watering

  • Mucking out stables and paddocks

  • Grooming, rugging, and hosing down horses

  • Administering basic care and reporting health updates

  • Leading fit or high-spirited thoroughbreds

  • Taking temperatures, weighing, and general observations

Couples are welcome — one of you can work in a non-horse-related role if you're good with general maintenance or equipment.

Working Hours & Pay

  • Workdays: 5 days per week

  • Hours: 6:30am–12:30pm & 2:00pm–4:30pm (shorter Sundays)

  • Roster: Set two weeks in advance

Pay Structure:

  • Get in touch for full breakdown of pay which is $800 -$1000 per week

  • Weekly average: 40–44 hrs

  • Full-time benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and superannuation

  • Weekly wages paid every Thursday

After three months, you'll be eligible for a wage increase — a great incentive to stay and grow your skills!

Accommodation

You’ll stay in a spacious, fully-furnished shared home nearby:

  • Private room, shared common areas

  • Rent deducted from pay

  • Includes utilities, Wi-Fi, bedding, and a fortnightly cleaning service

  • Shared vehicle provided for work and day trips

What We’re Looking For

  • Horse handling experience

  • Good spoken English

  • Willingness to learn and work hard

  • Positive attitude and ability to take direction

  • Physically fit and observant

  • Enthusiasm to learn more as there is a lot of opportunity to progress into other equine areas

This is a drug-free workplace. A two-week trial applies, and we ask for a minimum 3-month commitment.

A Typical Day

6:10 AM Depart staff house

6:30 AM Feed, muck out, and groom horses

10:30 AM General tasks and property maintenance

12:30 PM Lunch break

2:00 PM Afternoon feed & paddock duties

4:30 PM Sign out for the day

Why This Job?

This is more than just a job — it's your gateway into Australia’s thriving horse industry. You’ll:

  • Settle into the country and earn money before exploring further

  • Amazing opportunity for working with rehab vets

  • Connections to polo and show jumping opportunities if you prove yourself

  • Higher than the average pay

  • Highly sort after location

  • Gain real-world equine skills

  • Make lifelong friends from around the globe as very sociable setting

  • Work with horses in a professional, ethical setting

  • Enjoy life in a rural Australian community

“Arrive with a positive attitude about hard work, and you'll have an unforgettable experience.”